- #1
megacal
- 82
- 16
Is the beam of a pulsar projected perpendicular to its spin?
If so, is the "pulse" due to wobble?
If so, is the "pulse" due to wobble?
Pulsar Beams: Spin, Wobble, & Projection
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- Thread starter megacal
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- Beams Projection Pulsar Spin
In summary, a pulsar beam is caused by the rapid rotation of a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star, which twists and warps its magnetic field. A pulsar's wobble can affect its beam, causing it to appear to pulse from Earth's perspective. The shape of a pulsar beam is determined by the orientation of its magnetic field and spin axis, resulting in various shapes. A pulsar beam can change direction or evolve over time due to changes in its magnetic field or rotation. The pulsar's strong magnetic field projects the beam into space by accelerating charged particles along its field lines, creating the observed radiation.
- #2
newjerseyrunner
- 1,533
- 637
The pulse is due to the fact that the north pole of rotation is not exactly the same as the magnetic north pole. The engine of the jets are the magnetic fields that shoot particles out into space. It's going to be close to the true pole, but not exactly, which causes the regular pulse.
- #3
megacal
- 82
- 16
Ok, thanks for that clear & concise explanation.
It makes sense now.
It makes sense now.
1. What causes a pulsar beam to spin?
The rapid rotation of a pulsar, which is a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star, causes its magnetic field to twist and warp, resulting in a spinning beam of radiation.
2. How does a pulsar's wobble affect its beam?
A pulsar's wobble, which is a slight irregularity in its rotation, can cause its beam to appear to "pulse" or flicker in brightness as it rotates, making it appear to pulse from our perspective on Earth.
3. What determines the shape of a pulsar beam?
The shape of a pulsar beam is determined by the orientation of the pulsar's magnetic field and its spin axis. This can result in a variety of shapes, including a single beam, multiple beams, or even a fan-like structure.
4. Can a pulsar beam change direction or evolve over time?
Yes, a pulsar beam can change direction or evolve over time due to changes in the pulsar's magnetic field or rotation. This can result in a pulsar's beam appearing to "switch off" or "switch on" at different points in its rotation.
5. How is a pulsar beam projected into space?
A pulsar beam is projected into space by the pulsar's strong magnetic field, which accelerates charged particles along its magnetic field lines. These particles emit radiation, creating the pulsar's beam of radiation that we observe from Earth.
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